Snippet #2636021

Joel nodded his head in response to Shizuna's question. "I just pulled a few muscles. After the cramps in my thighs go away I should be able to walk normally. Thanks for asking." He rubbed his legs feeling the hardened muscle that was over-flexed from the soft comfortable area near his knee. He was surprised to hear the younger woman's voice again and with another question to boot, though this one seemed a little awkward for him. He wasn't sure if he wanted to say everything that was on his mind to someone. However, he knew that Shizuna was his friend, at least something like a friend and it wasn't like she'd use anything he'd say against him. Still, he didn't want to savagely choose his words.
"Ever since that night when we were attacked by the hollows, I've been training non-stop. I figured, I should have been strong enough easily beat a hollow like that. I was sure we all were. Yet, I was wrong, so I pushed myself, trying to see how far I could go until I reached today. Finally got something to eat, and decided to see if I was any stronger than the last time I checked. If I could be just this much faster, or this much stronger." He leaned back in his chair and raised a hand in front of his eyes trying to estimate the distance he needed to conquer. "I don't know. I'm sorry if I embarrassed you. . . Especially by losing."

He was really embarrassed himself. "I don't want you to think anything of my loss okay? It happens. I'll do better next time." Joel tried to reassure her, and as he spoke, the man also found himself feeling better as well. It wasn't as good as he wanted, just good for the situation. For now, he could put what was really bothering him behind him.